Cost Segregation Associate

KSM (Katz, Sapper & Miller); Cincinnati (OH); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

KSM (Katz, Sapper & Miller) is seeking an engineer/construction‑background professional to estimate construction costs and model energy efficiency for real estate projects. The role supports depreciation and tax incentives discussions and works with a team of engineering and tax professionals.

Responsibilities include analyzing building documentation, preparing cost estimates, and collaborating with clients.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Construction Management, Architecture, Business, or related field preferred.
• Proficiency with Excel and cost estimation tools is required.
• Experience reading blueprints and understanding construction processes.
• Willingness to travel to client sites as needed.
• Strong attention to detail and reliability.

Responsibilities

• Review construction cost invoices, blueprints, contracts, specifications, and other documentation to develop estimates for projects.
• Communicate with clients and stakeholders to clarify scope and identify tax planning opportunities.
• Travel to client sites to observe building characteristics and gather data for analysis.

Skills

Attention to detail

Excellent communication skills

Ability to multi-task

Strong organizational skills

Willingness to learn

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Construction Management, Architecture, Business, or related field

Tools

Excel

RS Means

Marshall & Swift

Cost databases

Job description

Job Description:

We’re KSM, one of the top 50 largest independent advisory, tax, and audit firms in the United States. But more than our size, it’s our people and culture that set us apart. We believe great things happen when people are supported, challenged, and given the freedom to do their very best work. That’s why we’ve built a workplace where your career and personal life can thrive together - where you have the flexibility to manage your time, the resources to grow, and a team that genuinely cares about your success.

We’ve been employee-owned since 2001, giving every team member a stake in our collective success. This ownership mentality fosters a culture of collaboration, curiosity, and excellence - where new ideas are welcomed, different perspectives are valued, and you’re encouraged to explore what excites you most. Whether you’re expanding your skills, tackling new challenges, or making an impact beyond the office, we provide the resources and support to help you grow in the direction that’s right for you.

At KSM, your contributions matter – not just to the firm, but to your colleagues, clients, and the communities we serve across the U.S. If you’re looking for a place where you can do meaningful work, build lasting relationships, and grow in ways that align with what’s most important to you, we’d love to meet you.

Position Summary:

KSM’s Real Estate Services Group is seeking a candidate with an engineering and/or construction background to join its advisory team. The successful candidate will use their skills and knowledge to estimate construction costs and potentially calculate/model the energy efficiency of commercial and multifamily real estate projects. This position includes developing a general understanding of depreciation principles and tax credits. The candidate will work directly with a team consisting of both engineering and tax professionals.

The successful candidate will use their understanding of construction methods, building systems, and cost estimating to analyze real estate projects, prepare construction cost estimates, and support studies on depreciation and energy-efficiency incentives. No prior tax or accounting experience is required.

Responsibilities:

• Review construction cost invoices, blueprints, appraisals, contracts, specifications, and other building documentation to analyze property components, perform cost allocations, and develop estimates for commercial and residential real estate projects.
• Communicate directly with clients and project stakeholders to understand project scope, construction methodologies, building systems, and property improvements in order to identify potential tax benefits and planning opportunities.
• Travel to client property sites as needed to observe building characteristics, verify project details, gather information for analysis, and support the preparation of client deliverables.

Requirements/Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Construction Management, Architecture, Business, or a related field preferred. An equivalent combination of education, training, and relevant work experience will be considered.
• Strong attention to detail
• Proficiency in the use of various computer programs, including a strong familiarity with Excel
• Excellent communication skills
• Well-organized and reliable
• Demonstrate commitment to continuous learning
• Able to multi-task and meet deadlines
• The ability to read and comprehend blueprints, perform area, volume, and quantity takeoffs, and to understand basic construction processes and methods is necessary, though additional training can and will be provided.
• Direct construction or design experience is a plus
• Experience working with R.S. Means, Marshall & Swift Valuation Service data, and similar Cost database resources is a plus.

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, veteran status, or any other protected category.